Get ready, Camas families! The beloved Movies in the Park series is returning to Dorothy Fox Elementary for an exciting summer of outdoor entertainment. This cherished community tradition offers the perfect opportunity to gather under the stars with neighbors and friends while enjoying family-friendly films in a relaxed outdoor setting. What better way to create lasting memories with your loved ones than with free movies, fun activities, and the warm community atmosphere that makes Camas special?
Planning the perfect movie night experience takes just a little preparation, but the rewards are enormous: quality family time, community connection, and entertainment without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of the Movies in the Park series at Dorothy Fox Elementary, from essential items to bring to insider tips that will ensure your family has an enjoyable outdoor movie experience. Let’s dive into creating memorable summer evenings your children will remember for years to come!
The 2025 Movies in the Park series, coordinated by Camas Parks & Recreation, kicks off on Friday, August 1st at Dorothy Fox Elementary School (2623 NW Sierra St.) with the 2023 blockbuster “Barbie” (PG-13). This free event runs every Friday throughout August, with each movie beginning at dusk. Mark your calendars for the fantastic lineup: “Barbie” (August 1, 8:45 p.m.), “Wicked” (August 8, 8:30 p.m.), “Lilo & Stitch” (August 15, 8:30 p.m.), “A Minecraft Movie” (August 22, 8:15 p.m.), and “Moana 2” (August 29, 8 p.m.). The carefully selected films offer something for everyone, ensuring families with children of all ages will find something to enjoy.
What makes Movies in the Park truly special is that the fun begins well before the films start. Arrive an hour before showtime to participate in pre-movie activities designed to entertain the whole family. Children can engage in themed crafts and interactive games related to each movie, building excitement for the main event. These pre-movie activities not only keep little ones entertained while waiting for darkness to fall but also provide wonderful opportunities for families to connect with others in the community. Sponsored by Camas United Methodist Church, this summer tradition embodies the community spirit that makes Camas such a wonderful place to live and raise a family.
To ensure your family has the most comfortable movie experience possible, come prepared with seating options. Bring along low-backed chairs or cozy blankets, depending on your preference. The viewing area is thoughtfully divided into two sections—chairs are placed in one half and blankets in the other—to ensure everyone gets a fair view of the screen regardless of their seating choice. This considerate arrangement prevents tall chairs from blocking the view of blanket-sitters and helps maintain a harmonious atmosphere for all attendees. For maximum comfort, consider bringing cushions or pillows to soften hard ground, and don’t forget light jackets or blankets as evening temperatures can cool down even during summer months.
Food is an essential part of the movie experience, and you have plenty of options at Movies in the Park. Families are welcome to pack their dinner and snacks—many bring picnic baskets with sandwiches, fruit, and other easy-to-eat items. If you prefer to travel light, novelty treats, including popcorn and candy, will be available for purchase on site. Remember that all food should be easily manageable in the dark, and please clean up after yourselves to keep our community spaces beautiful. Important restrictions to note: alcohol and pets are not permitted on school grounds. For any additional information about the Movies in the Park series, visit www.cityofcamas.us/parksrec and click on the Special Events button, or call 360-834-5307. No registration is required for this free community event!
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